“Guyana’s diversity is an asset” – PM
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, May 10, 2018
“Social cohesion flows from conventions where the society, over time, learns to respect the differences among the various sections and groupings in their midst and to build trust between and among groups of different ethnic, cultural or religious groups”.
This declaration was made by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during his feature address at the third observance of National Social Cohesion Day at the National Cultural Centre today.
The Prime Minister told those gathered that on assumption of office in 2015, the Coalition Government identified the Ministry of Social Cohesion as having an overarching role in unifying the country. The ministry is the arm of the Government responsible for creating the environment that would encourage the establishment and maintenance of harmony
This office, he said, has piloted the process of the development of the Five-Year Strategic Plan for Promoting and Enhancing Social Cohesion, from 2017-2021. It is working to create a sense of belonging and exclude the marginalisation of any group of persons on the basis of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, faith, occupation or age.
According to the Prime Minister, Social Cohesion is a process that develops from healthy social relations and from inclusive leadership and norms of behaviours that are tolerant of differences.
Guyanese, he said, live in an open and free country, enjoys democracy and the right to pursue freedom in all spheres of our life. This must not be traded for division, despair or destruction.
“Where communities get together, they are better able to press demands and to achieve quality health and education services. The different groups think and act together for the betterment of all.”
The Prime Minister asked those in attendance at the event, to show solidarity to the victims of the recent piracy attacks by observing a moment of silence.
“In a situation such as this, our notion of sharing the fate of our brothers and sisters requires that we give solidarity to the victims. Let their loved ones know that they are not alone.”
Prayers, dances, poetry and songs were all part of the programme to observe the third Social Cohesion Day under the theme “Celebrating Lasting Relationships in a Diverse Society.”
By: Gabreila Patram.
Photos by: Keno George
The National School of Dance performing.
The West Demerara Secondary School Choir performing a medley of folk songs.
Section of the audience at the third National Social Cohesion Day event.
Carlene Gill-Ker performed a spoken word.